Game Writing at a Distance (aka Game Writing under Contract) - Professional Techniques for Video Game Writing - page 66

the developer, such as “deliverables not formally accepted within ten days of deliv-
ery become automatically accepted� and “deliverables rejected for corrections more
than five days after delivery force the upcoming milestone deadline into the future a
number of days equal to the delay.�
Developers will fight these not-so-subtle reminders that they have some respon-
sibility here to keep things on schedule in addition to your part of the bargain, but
usually they will understand that it is all designed to keep the work flowing.
Lastly, always try to build a “draft-revision-final� approval cycle into the schedule.
They may not think they have the time or inclination to read a draft, give notes,
and then read a final, but you and I both know they will want to. Eventually, of
course, you will have established a relationship with them where they sign off on
your deliverables sight unseen.
One-Stop Shopping for the Developer
Make the most of your skills in order to make yourself more valuable. Many writ-
ers who have backgrounds in the performing arts (theater, film) are also capable of
directing voiceover sessions. Some game writers also do website design or ARG de-
sign. Once the developer gets to know your abilities, play up the other things you
can do for them. This increases your worth to them, and every task you successfully
complete for them increases their trust.
Learn the Development Process
Some developers only want writers to fix their broken dialog. Some only want writers
to craft their cinematics. Some want writers to set up levels in a first-person shooter
or an RTS. Whatever they want, you will benefit greatly from a deep understand-
ing of the development process and how you can best support that process. Don't
assume that the developer knows all the ways you can contribute. Look for those
opportunities and help lift the burden of the production team.
Be Flexible in Your Billing Methods
We all know that payments don't always come on time. Assume that you are probably
going to have to chase after some of your hard-earned money. Don't let this throw
you; it's almost never intentional. Most often, the cause is simply that overworked
producers haven't had the time to follow up on your payment.
Be certain that you get your invoice in on time. There's nothing against sending
in your invoice for the work before the work has been approved. Doing so functions
as a gentle reminder that both approval and payment are due. If the developer wants
to split your payment up in a way you're not used to or needs the invoice formatted
in a manner you've never seen, just smile and do as they ask.
Build Travel into the Budget Explicitly
When your contract is drawn up, be certain that you have enough time called out
for on-site visits. If you think you need more time, ask for it. All you are doing is